Pulau Ubin is a small island northeast of Singapore. Despite being within canoeing distance from Singapore it remains undeveloped and retains its rural charm. It is an island with a rural lifestyle that has changed little in 30 years. Traditional fishing huts called kelongs are built on stilts over the sea, while orchard trees, shrubs and flowers abound. There is plenty of wildlife.

Pulau Ubin is not a big island being only several kilometres across in size. There are no high-rise buildings on the island, only two-storey shophouses like the ones above. Many of the island's dwellers still survive on agriculture, a form of subsistence almost extinct in Singapore already. The main occupations of the people include working at the quarries, fishing and growing vegetables.

Come down to Pulau Ubin if you wish to experience Singapore in the 60s, with its kampong charm and rustic ambience. Hear the rooster crows in the morning as it sets the day off while neighbours gather round coffee stalls to have their usual "kopi" while discussing the latest headlines. Here, you can find quiet beaches, a kampong atmosphere and popular seafood restaurants (the island's best restaurant, the Ubin Restaurant). The island is small enough to cycle around and this is still the best way to explore its fish farms, holy temples, coconut palms, deserted beaches or an Outward Bound School.

Several Chinese temples, including one built into a cave that is accessible only at low tide, a traditional mosque, quarry lakes, Pulau Ubin Town Centre, Kampung Melayu, Maman Beach, floral nursery and animal farm and a Buddhist meditation centre are among many attractions of Ubin island.

The tranquillity and beauty of the island attracts many people who flock over from the Mainland every weekend, to partake in activities such as hiking, mountain-biking or merely to experience some form of wilderness living. The broken jetty on the northern shores of Ubin is one of many exotic destinations of these adventure-seekers.

Pulau Ubin is a favourite fishing hotspot in Singapore. Common species include seabass and mangrove jacks. The occasional threadfin salmon has been known to grace the hooks of lucky anglers.

Climb the hill in the centre of the island for a great view. Standing atop the hill, the sprawl of Singapore seems to be closing in.

Away from the coastline, secondary forests are interspersed by small rubber plantations and coconut groves. You may be fortunate enough to chance upon abandoned gardens and farms with trees laden with local fruits such as durian, rambutan and chempedak.

© COPYRIGHT 2000-2001 - ASIATRAVELLING.NET